I moved to China for Nigeria not for money- Mikel Obi

​Super Eagles captain and former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel explained why he accepted to move to Chinese Premier League to team up with Tianjin Teda. He said it was done to help Nigeria’s push to be at the 2018 World Cup in Brazil.

Mikel had been primarily snubbed from playing with the first team by Chelsea Coach, Antonio Conte, but he still remained a regular for the national teamSo he decided to move to Tianjin Teda on a three year deal so that he could get some playing time.Mikel said during an interview with Owngoalnigeria.com:

“I could easily have stayed in Chelsea for the remaining six months of my contract but it won’t be in the best interest of my nation, as they need me match fit when the World Cup 2018 qualifiers resume”.

“It wasn’t an easy decision to make but I seriously need matches to stay fit for Nigeria. Nigerians don’t deserve to miss out of the World Cup after back to back failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations”.

Adding that he didn’t do it for the money even though his current paycheck is double what he made at Chelsea.

Leaving Chelsea was good, but 4 me China wasn’t the best of decisions. All d same, I wish him luck

J.JJanuary 12, 2017

Mikel knows what is best for his career

ACJanuary 12, 2017

If you can have a good and regular play time in China it is better so as to keep fit. Forget that Chelsea coach.

Big geeJanuary 12, 2017

It’s a good thing that you still have this so called Nigeria in your thoughts so I wish you luck my brother

jamestoshJanuary 13, 2017

@ lugard , China is not the best but to boost his fitness and revive his dying career . Mikel might leave china before the expiration of the contract in the China for better club .Wishing him all the best in China